How to Sign "Sweater"

To sign 'sweater', start with both hands near your upper chest or shoulders, with your palms facing your body and fingers slightly curved. Pull both hands downward toward your waist, as if you are pulling a sweater down over your torso.

Examples Using "Sweater" in a Sentence

1

I need a warm sweater.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'warm', and then 'sweater' by pulling both hands down your chest.

2

That is a nice sweater.

Point to the sweater, sign 'nice', and then sign 'sweater'.

3

My sweater is blue.

Sign 'my', 'sweater', and then 'blue'.

How to Sign "Sweater"
To sign 'sweater', start with both hands near your upper chest or shoulders, with your palms facing your body and fingers slightly curved. Pull both hands downward toward your waist, as if you are pulling a sweater down over your torso.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'sweater' is highly iconic, mimicking the physical action of pulling a warm sweater down over your body to put it on.
Signing Tips
Focus on the downward pulling motion to clearly convey the idea of putting on a sweater. Make sure your hands start high enough near your shoulders to give a full, clear movement down to your waist.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the movement too small or starting too low on the chest. Ensure you start near the shoulders to differentiate it from signs that involve the lower torso or waist.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Sweater" in a Sentence
1

I need a warm sweater.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'warm', and then 'sweater' by pulling both hands down your chest.

2

That is a nice sweater.

Point to the sweater, sign 'nice', and then sign 'sweater'.

3

My sweater is blue.

Sign 'my', 'sweater', and then 'blue'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'sweater' the same as 'coat'?

No, 'coat' is signed by mimicking putting on a coat, with the hands moving from the shoulders down and inward as if pulling the lapels together. 'Sweater' involves pulling straight down.

Do I need to touch my body when signing 'sweater'?

You don't need to press your hands firmly against your body, but they should lightly brush or stay very close to your chest and stomach as you pull down.

Can I use this sign for a sweatshirt or hoodie?

Yes, this sign is often used generally for sweaters, sweatshirts, and pullovers. For a hoodie, you might add the sign for 'hood' by bringing your hands over your head.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!